The Lake Redwood dredging work is officially underway, the Redwood-Cottonwood Rivers Control Area (RCRCA) said.
Since early October 2021, a considerable amount of preparation has taken place for the dredging effort of the lake.
Over 23,000 feet of black, 18-inch diameter pipeline has been placed to transport to the dredged material to the dewatering pond north of the city.
The Michael B , the second largest dredge in JF Brennan’s fleet, arrived in Redwood Falls on April 12 and was placed onto the lake with a 600-ton crane.
A small kick-off celebration was held at Westside Park on April 22, Earth Day, to commemorate this special occasion as dredging officially began the afternoon of April 21.
Senator Gary Dahms and Representative Paul Torkelson, who authored the legislation to provide $7.3 million for the project, were on hand to share the excitement and to tour the Michael B.
The dredge will operate 6 days per week, 24 hours per day, taking Sundays off.
650,000 cubic yards of accumulated sediment is the removal goal, restoring depth to 20 feet in the deepest portions of the lake.
Other benefits include improved lake water quality in Lake Redwood and the receiving waters, restored recreational opportunities, increased water depth and clarity for aquatic habitat, and improved water supply for the City’s hydroelectric dam.